Widnes Vikings vs Hull FC Preview

The Lowdown

WIDNES VIKINGS

Widnes returned to losing ways last week as Salford comfortably dispatched them 30-10 so they will need to bounce back at home where they won their last game against St Helens.

Denis Betts has made a handful of changes to his squad and has recalled Aaron Heremaia to the 19-man squad although the hooker will face a late fitness test to see whether he will be able to face his former team.

The club have been dealt a blow by the news that their top tryscorer last season Corey Thompson has activated a clause in his contract that will allow him to return to Australia next season, although he will remain with the club for the remainder of this term even though he misses out here.

Hull have now won their last three matches in the league to move into second place and confidence has returned to the squad after a shaky spell of results prior to this run.

On the road they are unbeaten in their last five matches so they will not be phased by the trip to Widnes even though they have injuries, suspensions and international call-ups weakening their 19-man squad.

Scott Taylor is away with England, Sika Manu is suspended while Gareth Ellis is injured but they can count on Danny Houghton now that they have nursed him back to full fitness after a troublesome calf problem.

Analysis - what to expectWidnes have shown signs in recent home games that they are raising their performance levels in front of their fans but they face a quality Hull side who are in excellent form. Lee Radford's men will be keen to keep the pressure on Castleford at the top and as long as they avoid complacency, everything points towards an away win.

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